Nationwide polio vaccine campaign begins
Kabul, 21 August 2023: The Ministry of Public Health of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, in collaboration with international partners, today launched the second national polio immunization campaign for 2023.
The campaign, which will continue for four days, aims to vaccinate more than 11 million children under the age of five. The campaign will take place across the country with the exception of the northern region where it will take place from 28 – 31 August. Mebendazole tablets, used to treat infections caused by worms, will also be administered to all children from 24-59 months of age.
“We are committed to eradicating polio from Afghanistan with the support of our partners,” said Dr. Qalandar Ibaad, the Minister of Public Health of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. “The recent polio-positive cases are of great concern and polio campaigns, along with other basic health services, will continue until we fully eradicate polio from the country.”
“The support of all Afghans, including parents, community leaders, ethnic elders, and religious leaders, is critical and we want them to take part in the fight against polio to save Afghan children from permanent paralysis and death,” the Minister added.
Polio is a viral disease that has no cure and can only be prevented by a vaccine.
Unfortunately, this year, five positive polio cases have been reported, which is a concern to the government in its fight to save the nation from this virus.
The cooperation of the people and community leaders in the fight against polio is very important. Parents and families can protect their children from permanent paralysis by vaccinating them against polio during the campaign. Leaders can encourage their communities to vaccinate their children and help the vaccine teams to successfully implement the campaign.
